About Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project (PSHP):
- It is a PSHP proposed on the Sharavathi River in the Shivamogga district, Karnataka.
- This project, with its aim to generate 2,000 MW of power, will be the biggest of its kind in the country.
- It is being developed by Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL).
- The project involves building a pumped storage power plant between two existing reservoirs.
- The Talakalale dam currently helps balance water for the existing Sharavathy hydroelectric project. The Gerusoppa dam will be the lower reservoir.
- The project aims to utilise renewable energy sources and reduce carbon emissions.
- Modelled on the lines of Telangana’s Kaleshwaram project, it also aims to supply drinking water to Bengaluru.
- Five tunnels and eight pumping stations are critical parts of the plan.
- The project falls within the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of the Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to the endangered lion-tailed macaque, hornbills, king cobras, and numerous endemic plant species of the Western Ghats.
Key Facts about Sharavathi River:
- It flows through Karnataka.
- It is one of the few rivers in India, which flows in the west direction.
- A large part of the river basin lies in the Western Ghats.
- Course: Rising in the Western Ghats, it flows in a northwesterly direction and empties into the Arabian Sea at Honnavar, near the Uttara Kannada district.
- On its way, the Sharavathi forms the Jog Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in India.
- Diverse geological features mark the river’s course, including rocky outcrops, fertile plains, and deep gorges.
- Major Tributaries: Nandihole, Haridravathi, Mavinahole, Hilkunji, Yennehole, Hurlihole, and Nagodihole.
